Start your walk at the eastern edge of the historic Al Balad (old town) near the majestic Makkah Gate. Today, this tasteful reconstruction is a reminder of what the medieval city’s ancient walls once looked like; during the month of Dhu'l Hijjah, a thousand talbiyyahs were chanted by white-clad pilgrims as they passed beneath its impressive triple arch, announcing their intention to perform the most important spiritual journey of all. Jeddah’s Al Balad is famous for its intricately designed houses, built using coral from the depths of the Red Sea and boasting colorful rawasheen balconies, known as mashrabiyyahs. Look up as you amble by to see some of the finest examples of coral architecture anywhere in the world.